FTC Fails to Block Microsoft's Activision Blizzard Acquisition

Microsoft has achieved another significant victory against the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) in its efforts to acquire Activision Blizzard. The FTC's appeal to block Microsoft's monumental $69 billion deal to purchase the company behind the renowned Call of Duty franchise was firmly denied by the 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals in San Francisco. This ruling marks a pivotal moment, solidifying the acquisition that was originally announced in late 2022, as reported by Reuters. The decision, handed down by a three-judge panel, effectively ends the FTC's challenge to the July 2023 decision that permitted Microsoft to proceed with finalizing its purchase.

The acquisition of Activision Blizzard by Microsoft has been under intense scrutiny for over three years, with various stakeholders expressing concerns. Notably, certain U.S. Senators were among the first to oppose the transaction, citing worries about the increasing consolidation within the tech industry as Microsoft, the Xbox creator, expanded its portfolio. As the deal progressed, both competitors and gamers voiced fears that popular franchises such as Call of Duty might become exclusive to Microsoft platforms. However, Microsoft alleviated these concerns by confirming it had no interest in barring certain franchises behind lengthy exclusivity periods.

Every Video Game Franchise Xbox Owns After Acquiring Activision Blizzard

View 70 ImagesDespite continuous challenges throughout 2023, Microsoft successfully completed its purchase of Activision Blizzard in October of that year. The FTC's appeal posed a potential late-stage obstacle to the seamless continuation of business operations, but with its efforts now thwarted, the regulatory pursuit appears to be conclusively over.

For a comprehensive timeline detailing Microsoft's journey to finalize its acquisition of Activision Blizzard, you can click here.